This delicious corn bake combines sweet corn and vegetables with a creamy béchamel sauce, topped with mozzarella cheese and oregano. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect as a side or a light main course. The creamy sauce, combined with the sweet crunch of corn and vegetables, creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Easy to prepare and bake, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your home.
Preparation Time:
- Total Preparation Time: 45 minutes
- Vegetable Stir-Fry Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Béchamel Sauce Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Baking Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Stir-Fried Corn and Vegetables:
- 1 tablespoon butter (15g)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup or 80g)
- 1 carrot, finely diced (about 1/2 cup or 70g)
- Broccoli, small florets (about 1/2 cup or 60g)
- 1 tomato, small cubed (about 1/2 cup or 100g)
- 1 small can (330g weight without liquid) of sweet corn (1 1/2 cups)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the White Sauce (Béchamel Sauce):
- 2-3 tablespoons butter (30-45g)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (16g)
- 1 cup (250ml) milk
- Freshly ground black pepper, salt, and nutmeg to taste
For the Toppings:
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced (about 1 cup or 100g)
- Oregano (1 teaspoon)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).
- Prepare the Stir-Fried Corn and Vegetables:
- In a pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and stir until softened.
- Add the carrot, broccoli, and tomato. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well.
- Add the sweet corn and continue to stir and cook the vegetables until they are softened but still slightly crunchy.
- Pour the stir-fried vegetables into an oval baking dish (23 x 15 x 3 cm) and set aside.
- Prepare the White Sauce (Béchamel Sauce):
- In a separate saucepan or small pot, melt 2-3 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Add the flour and stir until well combined and smooth.
- Gradually add the milk a little at a time, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens and is smooth. If necessary, use a strainer to remove any lumps.
- Season the sauce with freshly ground black pepper, salt, and a pinch of nutmeg to taste.
- Assemble the Corn Bake:
- Pour the béchamel sauce evenly over the stir-fried corn and vegetables in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese or arrange slices of fresh mozzarella on top.
- Sprinkle oregano over the cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven at 220°C (428°F) for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Oven times may vary, so keep an eye on the dish to prevent over-browning.
- Serve:
- Serve the corn bake warm. It pairs well with a fresh salad or can be enjoyed as a standalone dish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the corn bake warm with a side of mixed greens or a fresh salad for a light and balanced meal.
- Pair with a grilled protein, such as chicken or fish, for a more substantial dinner.
- Enjoy as a side dish with roasted meats or a holiday feast.
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use a mixture of cheeses, such as Parmesan or Gruyère, along with mozzarella.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the béchamel sauce for a slight kick.
- Ensure the béchamel sauce is smooth by stirring continuously and adding the milk gradually.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Corn: Rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, which support overall health.
- Broccoli and Carrots: Add essential vitamins and minerals, enhancing the nutritional profile of the dish.
- Moderate Amount of Butter and Cheese: Provides necessary fats while keeping the dish balanced.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Lower-Fat Option: Use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of cheese.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fats: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave until warmed through.
- This dish is not suitable for freezing as the texture of the béchamel sauce may change.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- The combination of sweet corn and crunchy vegetables with a creamy béchamel sauce makes this dish incredibly satisfying.
- It’s easy to prepare and bake, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting side dish.
- The melted mozzarella cheese and oregano topping add a delicious and aromatic finish.
- Versatile and customizable, this bake can easily be adjusted to fit various dietary needs.
Conclusion:
Enjoy this savory and comforting corn bake with its rich blend of vegetables, creamy sauce, and cheesy topping. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether served as a side or a main dish, it brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. The flavors are perfectly balanced, and it’s easy to make, making it ideal for any occasion. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones?
- Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the pan.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the stir-fried vegetables and béchamel sauce ahead of time. Assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking.
- What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
- You can use other cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan, depending on your preference for flavor and texture.
- Can I make this dish vegan?
- Yes, substitute the butter with vegan butter, use plant-based milk for the béchamel sauce, and replace the cheese with a vegan alternative.
- How do I prevent the béchamel sauce from becoming lumpy?
- Stir continuously while gradually adding the milk to the flour mixture, ensuring a smooth consistency.
- What size baking dish should I use?
- A medium-sized oval or rectangular baking dish (about 23 x 15 x 3 cm) works well for this recipe.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
- It is not recommended to freeze this dish as the béchamel sauce may separate upon thawing, altering the texture.
- Can I add protein to this dish?
- Yes, diced chicken, ham, or even tofu can be added to the stir-fried vegetables for a protein boost.
- How do I make a thicker béchamel sauce?
- Add an extra tablespoon of flour when making the roux for a thicker sauce.
- Can I use other herbs besides oregano?
- Absolutely! Fresh or dried thyme, basil, or rosemary can also complement the flavors of the dish.